K-dramas are irresistible when exploring relationships, and the “best friends to lovers” trope is an all-time fan favourite! There’s just something so delightful about watching friendships spark into romance, right? Imagine all the sweet, awkward moments as characters wrestle with their feelings, trying not to mess up the friendship—cue the tension and butterflies! This journey is filled with laughter, heartfelt confessions, and maybe a few tears as they navigate the fear of losing what they already have. Plus, watching them grow is a total joy. Friends lift each other, but as they dive into romance, they reveal their vulnerabilities and evolve in the most beautiful ways.
So whether you’re a die-hard K-drama lover or just dipping your toes in, get ready for swoon-worthy stories that’ll make your heart race and your cheeks blush. Grab that popcorn and settle in—love is about to get a delightful upgrade from friendship in these K-dramas:
1. Weightlifting Fairy Kim Bok-joo
The show follows Kim Bok-joo, a young weightlifter navigating university life, friendship, and first love. As she faces challenges in a male-dominated sport, she develops a crush on swimmer Jung Joon-hyung. The series highlights themes of self-acceptance, perseverance, and the importance of support, blending humour and inspiration in a heartfelt coming-of-age story.
Stream On: Viki
2. Fight for My Way
This series centres on childhood friends Dong-man and Ae-ra, who support each other in pursuing their dreams while navigating the complexities of their feelings. Their chemistry and the blend of humour and heart make it a standout example of this trope. As they navigate their personal struggles and romantic entanglements, the drama explores themes of friendship, ambition, and the fight for one’s dreams. Dong-man and Ae-ra’s relationship evolves, filled with heartfelt moments and obstacles, as they support each other in their respective journeys.
Stream On: Netflix
3. My First First Love
A fresh take on young love, this drama follows a group of friends living together and discovering their feelings for each other. The interplay of friendship and budding romance creates a relatable and engaging narrative, making it a favourite among viewers.
Stream On: Netflix
4. Her Private Life
This romantic comedy revolves around dedicated art curator Sung Deok-mi and her best friend Ryan Gold, who unexpectedly becomes her romantic interest. Their journey from friends to lovers is filled with humour, misunderstandings, and sweet moments that keep audiences invested.
Stream On: Netflix
5. Our Beloved Summer
Studio N’s debut original series spans a decade in its characters’ lives, featuring one of the best friends-to-lovers arcs in K-dramas and a captivating love triangle. It tells the coming-of-age story of Choi Ung, a gifted illustrator who struggled academically, and his ex-girlfriend Kook Yeon-soo, who excelled in school and is now thriving in a public relations career.
Stream On: Netflix
6. She Was Pretty
A K-drama filled with comedic twists, it follows Kim Hye-jin, a once-beautiful woman, and her childhood friend Ji Sung-joon, who was previously considered unattractive. After losing touch due to Hye-jin’s family’s financial struggles, they reunite years later, only to find their roles reversed—Hye-jin has lost her beauty, while Sung-joon is now confident and attractive. The series mixes humour and heart, culminating in a sweet romance that goes beyond appearances.
Stream On: Netflix
7. The Reply Series (2012-2015)
This K-drama series offers not just one but three chances for a romance between friends who turn into lovers. As an anthology, each season introduces a new cast of characters, showcasing their journeys both in the past and present. In the past, viewers witness how these characters formed their friendships against the backdrop of cultural events, while the present hints at their futures as adults. Overall, the Reply series beautifully explores themes of friendship, family, and romance.
Stream On: Netflix
8. Love Next Door
A charming ongoing K-drama about two contrasting neighbours whose lives intertwine in comedic and heartfelt ways. They discover shared interests and unexpected romance as they navigate misunderstandings and everyday challenges. The series beautifully explores themes of friendship and love in a lighthearted, relatable manner.
Stream On: Netflix
Also, read: Stars And Storylines: We Asked AI To Assign K-Drama Personalities Based On Your Zodiac Sign
